In 2016, the eminent British historian of imperialism, John M. MacKenzie co-edited a book of essays dedicated to Sir Tom, the acknowledged master of diaspora studies across Britain. In an introduction outlining all the prizes and laurels, he writes: “but Tom is of course active in his church, in the Scottish Catholic History Society, and in his local community. Above all, he is a family man; a devoted husband, father and grandfather who has had his share of tragedy as well as triumph.” This is a reference to the death of his son, John.

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It’s about now that you yearn to insert the old “you can take the boy out of Lanarkshire” adage. It’s just that well … it doesn’t apply here: Sir Tom Devine has never left Lanarkshire. We meet in the family home in Hamilton that he and his wife

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